What hair and scalp say about health

Your eyes might be the windows to your soul, but your hair is like the window into your health. Now, your hair's appearance can't tell you everything, but it can give you a pretty strong indication of what's going on in your body.
Here, we're going to break down what everything from dry hair to itchy scalp could mean for your health. The theme here is that a lot of these symptoms are normal, but when you start noticing them become worse, that's when something in your body, diet or life could be changing.
Advertisement
Dry hair
Okay ladies, you probably know that if you over process your hair it can lead to dry strands instead of a luscious mane. But dry hair can also be a symptom of dehydration.
“Most people don’t drink enough water so ensure you drink at least two or three liters of fluid a day and avoid alcohol, tannins, sugar and caffeine,” Sara, a hair esthetician.
Dandruff
We've all suffered from dandruff now and then. In fact, it's estimated about half the population deals with those pesky flakes. But severe dandruff could be a sign of a bigger problem: "...severe dandruff can indicate a weakened immune system," Dr. Adam Friedmann, a consultant dermatologist at the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic, explained So if you're dealing with extreme dandruff, talk to your doctor about it.
Hair loss
Everyone loses hair, and while there's some debate as to how much, doctors say around 100-150 strands of hair a day is normal. You probably find your hair on your clothes, pillow or in your hairbrush. But if you notice yourself losing a lot more hair or that it's coming out in clumps, it could be a sign of a bigger problem.
Stress can often cause hair loss, but it can also be a sign of menopause too. “This occurs in around 30 percent of women going through the menopause,” Dr. Asim Shahmalak of the Crown Clinic in Manchester explained. Be sure to check out these 7 simple home remedies to promote thick, healthy hair and reduce hair loss.
Dull hair
Does your hair lack luster? It could be a sign you're not getting enough vitamins and nutrients in your diet. WebMD notes, "Your hair needs protein and iron to stay healthy, along with omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin A." So be sure to eat healthily or talk to your doctor about taking supplements.
Extra hair and head health tips:
Shutterstock
1. Avoid sun damage to your hair
Not only can the sun make your hair brittle, it can also damage your scalp. When out in the sun, be sure to wear a hat or apply SPF haircare products to protect yourself.
2. Don't pull your hair so tight
Baldness can occur at your hairline if you pull your hair too tightly back. This goes for anyone who often wears their hair in a bun, ponytail or tight braids.
Advertisement
3. Don't use so many products
Blow drying, straightening, curling, dyeing--all these things we regularly do to our hair actually damage our hair and scalp. So, be sure to give your locks some room to breathe (and grow) with a little TLC.
Resources WebMD and Mirror
RemedyDaily.com does not give medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.